December 06, 2018

Is Quartz Replacing Granite as the Most Desirable Countertop?

The debate has been stirring...and it continues! The choice between quartz and granite is a hot topic in the housing and design worlds of today. While there is a push towards quartz, there are many who pledge their allegiance to granite as their countertop of choice.

Both surfaces are incredibly strong and beautiful. And their price points tend to be in the same range for products of similar design quality.

So what are the big differences? We’ll highlight the main ones for you.

Material and sourcing

Granite is pure rock, cut into slabs to create beautiful countertops featuring rich, natural, unique pieces. This is mined from the earth and sometimes has to be shipped great distances. No two pieces are exactly the same, so matching sections could be a problem. However, some people admire this natural beauty of granite.

Quartz is engineered. It is a compound of ground quartz, resins, and pigments to create endless options to meet your design needs. Depending upon your location, this could be fabricated much closer to you than granite. Since colors are designed, pieces can be made almost identical to each other, eliminating noticeable seams in larger countertops. Also, the process has advanced to the point of being able to create pieces that have the natural appearance of granite.

Durability

Granite is a rock, so heat does not damage it. These countertops may be used inside or outside your home, adding an elegant touch to either environment.

Quartz is stronger than granite, as it is engineered and is nearly indestructible. However, heat can damage it, so trivets or hotpads must always be used to protect it, and it should not be used over radiant floors. Also, quartz should not be used outside as the sun can damage it, due to the resins it contains.

Cleaning and care

Granite is porous and needs to be regularly sealed (consult your manufacturer for timing).

Quartz is easier to maintain as it is nonporous and does not need to be resealed.

Quartz is also better with stain resistance, but both products are easy to clean on a daily basis - simply wash with warm water and soap. If tough spills occur, use non-abrasive cleaners to avoid dulling your surfaces.

The current trends in the market suggest that quartz is the favored countertop! However, if you are considering building or remodeling your North Shore home, consider your options and what meets your needs and personal preferences! For additional information, here are some articles that focus on this debate and may be able to help you finalize your decision: